Access device with anchoring body and modular inserts and support structure for supporting accessories used in minimally invasive surgical procedures

ABSTRACT

An access port is disclosed for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures performed within a patient&#39;s abdominal cavity, which includes a body defining a bore configured to guide at least one surgical instrument into the abdominal cavity, and concave and convex anchoring regions for securing the access port relative to the abdominal cavity.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/897,870 filed on Jun. 10, 2020, which claims the benefit ofpriority to U.S. divisional application Ser. No. 15/786,265, filed Oct.17, 2017, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,687,847, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/098,301filed on Apr. 13, 2016, now issued as a U.S. Pat. No. 10,278,730. Thisapplication claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/409,104, filed on Oct. 17, 2016, U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/429,439, filed on Dec. 2, 2016,U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/467,593, filed on Mar. 6,2017, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/467,596, filed on Mar.6, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/526,782, filedon Jun. 29, 2017, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference herein in their entireties.

U.S. application Ser. No. 15/098,301 claims the benefit of and priorityto U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/192,872, filed Jul. 15,2015, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/238,245, filed Oct. 7,2015, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/277,427, filed Jan.11, 2016, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by referenceherein in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The subject invention is directed to surgery, and more particularly, toan anchored access port having an attachment to support accessories,such as imaging and lighting devices, used in minimally invasivesurgical procedures performed within the abdominal cavity of a patient,including, but not limited to, laparoscopic surgical procedures.

2. Description of Related Art

Laparoscopic or “minimally invasive” surgical techniques are becomingcommonplace in the performance of procedures such as cholecystectomies,appendectomies, hernia repair and nephrectomies. Benefits of suchprocedures include reduced trauma to the patient, reduced opportunityfor infection, and decreased recovery time. Such procedures within theabdominal (peritoneal) cavity are typically performed through a deviceknown as a trocar or cannula, which facilitates the introduction oflaparoscopic instruments into the abdominal cavity of a patient.

Additionally, such procedures commonly involve filling or “insufflating”the abdominal (peritoneal) cavity with a pressurized gas such as carbondioxide, to create what is referred to as a pneumoperitoneum. Theinsufflation can be carried out by a surgical access device (sometimesreferred to as a “cannula” or “trocar”) equipped to deliver insufflationgas, or by a separate insufflation device, such as an insufflation(veress) needle. Introduction of surgical instruments into thepneumoperitoneum without a substantial loss of insufflation gas isdesirable, in order to maintain the pneumoperitoneum.

During laparoscopic procedures, a surgeon makes three to four smallincisions, between 12 mm and 25 mm in length depending upon the devicetype, usually no larger than about twelve millimeters each, which aretypically made with the surgical access devices themselves, often usinga separate inserter or obturator placed therein. Following insertion,the inserter is removed, and the trocar allows access for instruments tobe inserted into the abdominal cavity. Typical trocars often providemeans to insufflate the abdominal cavity, so that the surgeon has anopen interior space in which to work. The trocar must provide a means tomaintain a desired pressure within the cavity by sealing between thetrocar and the surgical instrument being used, while still allowing atleast a minimum freedom of movement of the surgical instruments. Suchinstruments can include, for example, scissors, linear staplers,grasping instruments, and occluding instruments, cauterizing units,cameras, light sources and other surgical instruments. Sealing elementsor mechanisms are typically provided on trocars to prevent the escape ofinsufflation gas. Sealing elements or mechanisms typically include aduckbill-type valve made of a relatively pliable material, to sealaround an outer surface of surgical instruments passing through thetrocar.

Anchoring means must also be provided for securing the trocar or cannulato a patient's abdominal wall during a procedure to prevent the accessdevice from inadvertently withdrawing from the incision through which ithas been extended. This is typically accomplished using sutures that arepassed through eyelets or similar tie-down features provided on thehousing of the trocar or cannula. However, the sutures that are used inthis manner can often cause increased trauma to the patient, addcomplexity to the surgical procedure and create obstructions near thesurgical site making it more difficult for the surgeon to operate.

In many of these surgical procedures, several access ports are required,each one dimensioned to receive a particular surgical instrument for useat the surgical site. One of the access ports is typically configured toreceive the endoscopic camera that is used for viewing the abdominalcavity and enabling display of the cavity and the manipulation of theinstrumentation and tissue within the body cavity on a video monitorviewed by the surgeon.

Therefore, there is a need in the art for a surgical access device thatovercomes many of the disadvantages of prior art surgical accessdevices, including, among others, those associated with the use ofanchoring sutures to secure the access device in place during a surgicalprocedure. It would also be advantageous to reduce the number of accessports in the abdominal cavity while maintaining the same instrumentationand maneuverability of the instruments within the body cavity. Moreparticularly, it would be advantageous to incorporate certain accessorydevices, such as a camera, laser or light source into the access deviceitself, either integrally or by way of a modular attachment, in order toreduce the number of access ports employed during a surgical procedure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The subject invention is directed to a new and useful surgical accessport for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as, forexample, laparoscopic surgical procedures performed within a patient'sabdominal cavity that overcomes the disadvantages associated with priorart surgical access devices, including the use of anchoring sutures tosecure the device in place during a procedure.

In an embodiment of the subject invention the surgical access portcomprises a body defining an outer periphery and a central axis, andhaving opposed proximal and distal end portions. The body also has anelongated bore extending therethrough from the proximal end portionthereof to the distal end portion thereof for accommodating theintroduction of one or more surgical instruments into the patient'sabdominal cavity during a surgical procedure.

The body further includes a convex anchoring region projecting radiallyoutwardly from the distal end portion of the body for securing theaccess port with respect to an interior surface of the patient'sabdominal wall, and a concave anchoring region projecting radiallyinwardly into the proximal end portion of the body, in a location thatis substantially diametrically opposed from the convex anchoring regionon the distal end portion of the body, for securing the access port withrespect to an exterior surface of the patient's abdominal wall. Theseanchoring features overcome the need for sutures commonly used to securean access device in place during a surgical procedure.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, at least one roundedprotuberance projects radially outwardly from an outer peripheral wallof the body between the convex anchoring region and the concaveanchoring region to further aide in securing the access port withrespect to the patient's abdominal wall. Alternatively, a plurality ofrounded protuberances project radially outwardly from an outerperipheral wall of the body between the convex anchoring region and theconcave anchoring region. In such instances, the rounded protuberancesmay be distributed circumferentially about the periphery of the bodybetween the convex anchoring region and the concave anchoring region.Furthermore, these rounded protuberances may increase in diameter fromthe convex anchoring region toward the concave anchoring region in aprogressive manner. In an embodiment of the subject invention, anatraumatic spur projects radially outwardly from the distal end portionof the body, in a location that is diametrically opposed from the convexanchoring region adjacent thereto, to further aide in securing theaccess port with respect to the patient's abdominal wall.

Preferably, the surgical access port of the subject invention includesan integrally associated or otherwise embedded insufflation conduit fordelivering insufflation gas into the patient's abdominal cavity during alaparoscopic procedure. The conduit has a connective fitting associatedtherewith, such as, for example, a standard luer fitting for enablingconnection with a flexible conduit or tube set extending from a sourceof insufflation gas. Preferably, at least one mechanical seal is seatedwithin the elongated bore of the body to inhibit the egress ofinsufflation gas from the patient's abdominal cavity.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, an arcuate access slot isalso formed in the proximal end portion of the body tapering to acircular exit port formed in the distal end portion of the body,adjacent the elongated bore, for accommodating the introduction ofanother surgical instrument into the patient's abdominal cavity. Thearcuate access slot provides the surgeon with an increased range ofmobility when manipulating an instrument during a procedure. Preferably,the arcuate slot includes a mechanical seal to inhibit the egress ofinsufflation gas therethrough. It is envisioned that additional accessslots or bores or differing diameter and/or shape may be providedthrough the body for accommodating the passage of individual surgicalinstruments.

As for the primary elongated bore of the access port, it is envisionedthat it could be a generally cylindrical bore, and it could extend at anangle relative to the central axis of the body, or it could be coaxiallyaligned with the central axis of the body. The elongated bore may belaterally offset from the central axis of the body. And, in certainembodiments, the elongated bore would taper from the proximal endportion of the body towards the distal end portion of the body toprovide an increased range of instrument mobility. Preferably, theelongated bore has an optimal working diameter in the range of about 12mm or more to about 5 mm or less, enabling the use of a wide range ofsurgical instruments with access device 10.

It is envisioned that the body of the access port is generallycylindrical in configuration. It could also be generally frusto-conicalin configuration, tapering from the proximal end portion thereof towardthe distal end portion thereof. Preferably, the convex anchoring regionof the body has an atraumatic leading edge surface that is configured toaide in the percutaneous insertion of the body through an incision inthe patient's abdominal wall. Moreover, the convex anchoring region actsas a fulcrum point for the access port body during its insertion throughthe incision, allowing the surgeon to “shoe-horn” the device into ananchoring position relative to the patient's abdominal wall. The concaveanchoring region preferably extends through an arc that runs at leastpartially about the periphery of the body, and preferably it hasatraumatic rounded outer edge surfaces.

In embodiments of the subject invention, the surgical access portfurther includes a sealed adapter plug configured for intimateengagement within a distal end portion of the elongated bore. The sealedadapter plug can include a single instrument passage having a foldedbaffle seal seated therein or the like. Alternatively, the sealedadapter plug can include a plurality of instrument pathways, each onefor accommodating the passage of an individual surgical instrumentthrough the body of the access port and into the patient's abdominalcavity. The individual instrument pathways provided in the adapter plugcan all have a common diameter, or at least one of the instrumentpathways provided in the adapter plug can have a different diameter thanthe others.

For example, at least one of the pathways could have a 10 mm diameter toaccept a rigid or flexible laparoscope, another pathway could have a 12mm diameter to accommodate a linear stapler, such as a GIA device, andyet another pathway could have a diameter of 5 mm to accommodate agrasping instrument or the like. Preferably, a mechanical seal is seatedwithin each of the instrument pathways to inhibit the egress ofinsufflation gas therethrough during a surgical procedure.

The subject invention is also directed to an access port assembly or kitfor use in minimally invasive surgical procedures performed within apatient's abdominal cavity, which includes an access port body definingan outer periphery and a central axis, and having opposed proximal anddistal end portions, wherein the body further has an elongated boreextending therethrough from the proximal end portion thereof to thedistal end portion thereof. The assembly or kit also includes at leastone sealed adapter plug configured for intimate engagement within adistal end portion of the elongated bore of the body, wherein theadapter plug has at least one sealed pathway for accommodating theintroduction of one or more surgical instruments into the patient'sabdominal cavity.

The assembly or kit preferably includes a plurality of sealed adapterplugs, each one having a different arrangement of instrument pathwaysprovided therein, and each one designed for preforming differentsurgical procedures. It is envisioned that one or more of the accessport bodies could be packaged for sale together with one or more of thesealed adapter plugs to form a kit.

It is envisioned that an insufflation conduit would be operativelyassociated with either the body or the adapter plug for deliveringinsufflation gas into the patient's abdominal cavity. The conduit wouldhave a connective fitting associated therewith for connecting the accessport to a source of insufflation gas.

The subject invention is also directed to an access port for use inminimally invasive surgical procedures performed within a patient'sabdominal cavity, which includes a body defining an outer periphery anda central axis, and having opposed proximal and distal end portions, thebody further having an elongated bore extending therethrough from theproximal end portion thereof to the distal end portion thereof foraccommodating the introduction of one or more surgical instruments intothe patient's abdominal cavity. The body includes an anchoring regionprojecting radially outwardly from the distal end portion of the bodyfor securing the access port with respect to an interior surface of thepatient's abdominal wall, wherein the anchoring region of the body isadapted and configured to support one or more accessories used during asurgical procedure adjacent to the elongated bore of the body.

In one embodiment of the invention, the anchoring region is bifurcatedto define a channel for accommodating attachment of a support structureadapted to support one or more accessories used during a surgicalprocedure. In another embodiment of the invention, the support structureis dimensioned and configured to fit over the anchoring region. In suchan instance, the anchoring region is preferably formed from a metalstrut or the like.

It is envisioned that the accessories associated with the anchoringregion and at least one of the surgical instruments may be selected fromthe group consisting of an optical imaging device, a camera device, ascope, a video device, a light source, a lighting device, a laserdevice, a measuring device, a laser measuring device, a signaltransmitting device, a signal receiving device, a signal processingdevice, a memory storage device, a wiring device, a servo driven device,a gear device, an irrigation device and/or a suction device. Otherdevices and tools are also envisioned. Preferably, the body includeseither connective electrical wiring or fiber optic cables for couplingwith or otherwise communicating with one or more of the accessories.

The subject invention is further directed to an access port for use inminimally invasive surgical procedures performed within a patient'sabdominal cavity, which includes a body having a central axis anddefining a bore configured to guide at least one surgical instrumentinto a patient's abdominal cavity, and an anchoring region extendingradially outward from the body relative to the central axis for securingthe access port relative to the abdominal cavity. The anchoring regionincludes a support structure configured for articulating movement withinthe abdominal cavity relative to the body.

In certain embodiments, a portion of the anchoring region is integrallyformed with the body, and the support structure is detachably coupled tothe integrally formed portion of the anchoring region and configured toextend radially outward therefrom relative to the central axis. Invarious embodiments, the support structure includes a pair of radiallyextending arms, at least one of which is movable relative to the body.The radially extending arms are preferably spring biased toward a spreadopen position in which the arms define a gap therebetween, andcollapsible to a closed position in which the arms are in contact withone another along a radial length thereof.

In certain embodiments, the support structure includes a mounting boardcoupled to the radially extending arms and spring biased toward a curvedconfiguration. The mounting board can additionally be configured toelastically deform from the curved configuration toward a substantiallyflat configuration when the pair of radially extending arms are movedfrom the spread open position to the closed position for insertion intoor removal from the abdominal cavity.

The subject invention is also directed to an access port for use inminimally invasive surgical procedures performed within a patient'sabdominal cavity, which includes a body defining a bore configured toguide at least one surgical instrument into a patient's abdominalcavity, and an anchoring region including a pair of arms extendingradially relative to a central axis of the body, the arms biased towarda spread open position in which the arms define a gap therebetween, andare configured to support at least one accessory used during a surgicalprocedure.

In certain embodiments, the anchoring region includes a cone-shapedmodule integrally formed with the body and detachably coupled to thepair of radially extending arms. The anchoring region can include amounting board substantially arcuately aligned with a radially outersurface of the cone-shaped module when the arms are disposed in thespread open position. In certain embodiments, the anchoring region caninclude a fixed segment and at least one mobile segment, and the mobilesegment(s) may be controllable from outside the abdominal cavity.

The subject invention is additionally directed to a kit for use inminimally invasive surgical procedures performed within a patient'sabdominal cavity, which includes an access port having a body defining abore configured to guide at least one surgical instrument into apatient's abdominal cavity, and a first anchoring portion integrallyformed with the body. A second anchoring portion is provided which isconfigured for detachable coupling with the first anchoring portion andarticulating movement within the abdominal cavity relative to the body.The second anchoring portion can include a fixed segment and at leastone mobile segment, and the at least one mobile segment can beconfigured for operative association with a control device outside ofthe abdominal cavity.

These and other features of the surgical access port of the subjectinvention and the manner in which both are manufactured and employedwill become more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in theart from the following enabling description of the preferred embodimentsof the subject invention taken in conjunction with the several drawingsdescribed below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that those skilled in the art to which the surgical access port ofthe subject invention appertains will readily understand how to make anduse the subject invention without undue experimentation, preferredembodiments thereof will be described in detail herein below withreference to certain figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the anchored surgical access port of thesubject invention installed in an abdominal wall of a patient, whichincludes an elongated bore, and illustrates a distal convex anchoringregion, a proximal concave anchoring region, and a plurality ofprotuberances of gradually increasing diameter and a distal atraumaticspur;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the anchored access port of FIG. 1,additionally provided with an arcuate access slot that tapers to acircular exit port;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an adapter plug configured forintimate engagement within the elongated bore of the surgical accessports shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, which includes a mechanical baffle seal;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the anchored access port of FIG. 1,additionally provided with an insufflation conduit and flexible sidewalls;

FIG. 5A is an exploded perspective view of the access port of thesubject invention provided with a detachable single channel port adapterand extension;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the access port and single channel portadapter and extension of FIG. 5A assembled and installed in theabdominal wall of a patient;

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of another embodiment of the access portof the subject invention, which includes an elongated proximal portionof the body;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the access port ofthe subject invention, which includes three diverging ports and ananchoring portion which is bifurcated and includes flat exteriorsurfaces defining a channel to accommodate a support structure foraccessories used in minimally invasive surgical procedure;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the access portof the subject invention, which includes three diverging curved portsand a flexible instrument with shape memory extending through one of thediverging curved ports;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the accessport of the subject invention, which includes an elongated integrallyformed distal convex anchoring region;

FIG. 8 is an exploded partial cutaway perspective view of yet anotherembodiment of the access port of the subject invention, which includes atruncated anchoring region with a strut for receiving an anchoringsleeve having an integral flange and configured as a support structurefor accessories used in minimally invasive surgical procedures;

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an example function of the accessport of the subject invention, including a depiction of the access portin use with a robotic arm that can operate multiple surgical instrumentsunder vision through a camera associated with the anchoring portion ofthe access port;

FIG. 10 is a perspective exploded view of another embodiment of theaccess port of the subject invention, which includes a detachable sleevesupporting surgical accessories which detachably couples to an elongatedanchoring region of the access port;

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of yet another embodiment of theaccess port of the subject invention, which includes an exemplarymulti-segment boot tip module in a spread open position which detachablycouples to the access port, and allows for binocular vison within apatient's abdominal cavity;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the access port and exemplarymulti-segment boot tip module of FIG. 11 in an assembled closed positionand oriented for insertion into an incision in the abdominal wall;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the access port and exemplarymulti-segment boot tip module of FIGS. 11-12 in a spread open position,and installed in the abdominal cavity of a patient; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the access portand multi-segment boot tip module of the subject invention, and includesa control device which is coupled to the access port body and themulti-segment boot tip module, and is in operative communication with anoutside device for control of the arms of the multi-segment boot tipmodule.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identifysimilar structural features or aspects of the subject invention, thereis illustrated in FIG. 1 a new and useful surgical access port for usein minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as, for example,laparoscopic surgical procedures performed within a patient's abdominalcavity which is designated generally by reference numeral 10.

Surgical access port 10 provides certain improvements over theadvantageous surgical access port devices disclosed in commonly assignedU.S. Pat. No. 9,011,319 to Norton et al., U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2007/0208312 to Norton et al., U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2015/0216562 to Norton et al., and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 60/779,136 to Norton, the disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.Surgical access port 10 also provides certain improvements overadvantageous surgical access port devices disclosed in relatedInternational Patent Publication No. WO 2009/128811 to Norton et al.,U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/124,066 to Norton et al.,U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/965,404 to Norton et al., andU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/961,802 to Norton et al., thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir entireties. These improvements relate at least in part to the wayin which the access port is anchored with respect the abdominal wall 11of a patient and to the increased modularity of the access port,adapting it for use in a variety of different surgical procedures, aswill be discussed in more detail herein below. Referring now to FIG. 1,the surgical access port 10 of the subject invention comprises a body 12defining an outer periphery 14 and a central axis “X”, and havingopposed proximal and distal end portions 16 and 18. The body 12 also hasa single elongated bore or port 20 extending therethrough from theproximal end portion 16 thereof to the distal end portion 18 thereof foraccommodating the introduction of one or more surgical instruments intothe patient's abdominal cavity 21. The elongated single bore 20 has aworking diameter in the range of about between 5 mm or less to about 12mm or more.

The body 12 further includes a convex anchoring region 22 projectingradially outwardly from the distal end portion 18 of the body 12 forsecuring the access port 10 with respect to an interior surface 23 ofthe patient's abdominal wall 11. The body 12 also includes a concaveanchoring region 24 projecting radially inwardly into the proximal endportion 16 of the body 12, in a location that is substantiallydiametrically opposed from the convex anchoring region 22 on the distalend portion 18 of the body 12, for securing the access port 10 withrespect to an exterior surface 25 of the patient's abdominal wall 11.

With continuing reference to FIG. 1, in an embodiment of the subjectinvention, one or more rounded protuberances 26 project radiallyoutwardly from an outer peripheral wall 27 of the body 12 between theconvex anchoring region 22 and the concave anchoring region 24 tofurther aide in securing the access port 10 with respect to thepatient's abdominal wall 11. The rounded protuberances 26 may bedistributed circumferentially about the periphery of the body 12 betweenthe convex anchoring region 22 and the concave anchoring region 24.Furthermore, these rounded protuberances 26 may increase in diameterfrom the convex anchoring region 22 toward the concave anchoring region24, as shown in FIG. 1. It is envisioned that the number, size, shapeand location of the protuberances can vary depending upon theapplication.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, an atraumatic spur 28projects radially outwardly from the distal end portion 18 of the body12, in a location that is diametrically opposed from the convexanchoring region 22 adjacent thereto, to further aide in securingsurgical access port 10 with respect to the patient's abdominal wall.

Referring now to FIG. 2, in an embodiment of the subject invention, anarcuate access slot 34 may be formed in the proximal end portion 16 ofthe body 12 tapering to a circular exit port 36 formed in the distal endportion 18 of the body 12, adjacent the elongated bore 20, foraccommodating the introduction of another surgical instrument into thepatient's abdominal cavity 21. The arcuate access slot 34 provides anincreased range of motion to the surgeon during a procedure as describedin U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0208312 to Norton et al,incorporated herein by reference in its entirety above. Preferably, thearcuate access slot 34 includes an internal mechanical seal (not shown),which would preferably be located near the exit port 36. It isenvisioned that additional access slots or bores of differing diameterand/or shape may be provided through the body 12 of the access port 10for accommodating the passage of individual surgical instruments ofdifferent sizes.

As for the primary elongated bore 20 of the access port 10, it isenvisioned that it could be a generally cylindrical bore as shown, andit could extend at an angle relative to the central axis “X” (FIG. 1) ofthe body 12, or it could be coaxially aligned with the central axis “X”of the body 12. The elongated bore 20 of access port 10 may be laterallyoffset from the central axis “X” of the body 12. In certain embodiments,the elongated bore 20 can taper from the proximal end portion 16 of thebody 12 towards the distal end portion 18 of the body 12.

It is envisioned that the body 12 of the access port 10 is generallycylindrical in configuration. It could also be generally frusto-conicalin configuration, tapering from the proximal end portion 16 thereoftoward the distal end portion 18 thereof. Preferably, the convexanchoring region 22 has an atraumatic leading edge surface 29 that isconfigured to aide in the percutaneous insertion of the body 12 throughan incision 31 (FIG. 1) in the patient's abdominal wall 11. Insertionand removal of the access port into the abdominal cavity is furtherdiscussed below with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 11-13. Thoseskilled in the art will readily appreciate that the length, width andheight of the convex anchoring region 22 can vary depending upon theapplication. For example, the convex anchoring region 22 at the distalend portion 18 may be symmetrical around the entire body 12 of theaccess port 10, or may be elongated on one side of the body 12 in theshape of a boot-tip as shown at the left side of FIGS. 1 and 2. Theconcave anchoring region 24 preferably extends through an arc that runsat least partially about the periphery 14 of the body 12, and preferablyhas atraumatic rounded outer edge surfaces 33. It should also beappreciated that the depth, arcuate length and height of the concaveanchoring region 24 can vary depending upon the application. It isenvisioned that in various embodiments of the subject invention, opposedportions of the abdominal wall 11A, 11B on opposite sides of theincision 31 are received by the concave anchoring region 24 on oppositesides of the body 12, and that the convex region 22 at the distalportion 18 of the body 12 may extend partially or fully under theinterior surface 23 of the abdominal wall 11.

Referring to FIG. 3, in embodiments of the subject invention, the accessport 10 further includes a sealed adapter plug 40 configured forintimate engagement within a distal end portion 35 of the elongated bore20. The sealed adapter plug 40 can include a single instrument passage37 having a folded baffle seal 42 seated therein. Alternatively, thesealed adapter plug 40 can include an insert or integrally formedportion which defines plurality of instrument pathways 39A, 39B, 39C,each for accommodating the passage of an individual surgical instrument(e.g., a camera, scope, light, operating instrument, or other accessoryas described herein) through the body 12 of the access port 10, and forguiding respective instruments into the patient's abdominal cavity 21 atselect locations.

The individual instrument pathways provided in the adapter plug 40 canall have a common diameter, or at least one of the instrument pathwaysprovided in the adapter plug 40 can have a different diameter than theothers. Preferably, a mechanical seal is seated within each of theinstrument pathways to inhibit the egress of insufflation gastherethrough. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an adapter plug40 configured for intimate engagement within the elongated bore 20 ofthe surgical access ports shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, which can includemechanical baffle seals.

It is envisioned that certain sections of the peripheral wall 14 of thebody 12 of access port 10 in the region of the elongated bore 20, forexample, could be formed at least in part by a flexible or otherwiseelastomeric material to provide the surgeon with increased range ofmotion during a surgical procedure.

Referring to FIG. 4, the access port 10 can include an embeddedinsufflation conduit 30 for delivering insufflation gas through the body12 of the access port 10 into the patient's abdominal cavity 21 at adistal port 41. The conduit 30 has a connective fitting 32 associatedtherewith, such as, for example, a standard luer fitting for enablingconnection with a flexible conduit or tube set extending from a sourceof insufflation gas. Preferably, at least one mechanical seal (notshown) is seated within the elongated bore 20 of the body to inhibit theegress of insufflation gas from the patient's abdominal cavity 21. Themechanical seal can be in the form of a multi-leaved hemostasis valve, aduckbill valve or as similar mechanical valve used in the surgical arts.

It will also be appreciated that the subject invention is also directedto an access port assembly or kit for use in minimally invasive surgicalprocedures performed within a patient's abdominal cavity 11, whichincludes embodiments of the access ports described herein andembodiments of at least one sealed adapter plug 40 described herein.Each sealed adapter plug can have a different arrangement of instrumentpathways provided therein, and each different instrument pathway can bedesigned for performing a different surgical procedure. It is envisionedthat one or more of the access port bodies described herein could bepackaged for sale together with one or more of the sealed adapter plugs40 to form a kit.

It is envisioned that the insufflation conduit 30 would be operativelyassociated with the either the body 12 or the adapter plug 40 fordelivering insufflation gas into the patient's abdominal cavity 21. Theconduit 30 can include a connective fitting associated therewith forconnecting the access port 10 to a source of insufflation gas, and caninclude a cap 43 for covering or sealing the conduit 30 at a proximalend of the conduit 30 when not in use.

It is envisioned that the access port 10 of the subject invention can beutilized in thoracic surgical procedures and more generally in minimallyinvasive surgical procedures performed in the properitnoeal spaces lyingbetween the parietal peritoneum and the ventral musculature of the bodycavity. In such procedures, it is typically unnecessary to insufflatethe body cavity, and therefore, the access port 10 may not include aninsufflation conduit or connection as required in laparoscopicprocedures performed within the abdominal cavity of a patient.

Referring to FIG. 5A, the access port 10 may be used in conjunction witha detachable single channel port extension adapter 45 in patients withsignificant fatty abdominal tissue and/or a thick abdominal wall. Theextension adaptor 45 provides a proximal channel extension to the bore20 with distal conduit 47 and proximal conduit 49 as shown. Distalconduit 47 has an interior surface 51 defining a groove 53 around thecircumference thereof for receiving (e.g., by press, interference, orsnap fit) an 0-ring 55 fixedly attached to the body 12 of access port 10to fixedly engage the extension adaptor 45 to the body 12 of the accessport. Other suitable mechanical engagements and/or fasteners may beutilized. Proximal conduit 49 may be translatable within distal conduit47 to adjust the overall height of the extension adaptor 45 appropriateto a particular patient, and locked in a particular vertical position byspring loaded pin and slot configurations (not shown) and/or rotatableengagement of threads between the proximal and distal conduits 47, 49.Alternatively, the extension adapter 45 may be provided with a fixedoverall height without height adjustment capability.

Referring to FIG. 5B, the access port 10 and extension adapter are shownassembled together and installed through a relatively thick abdominalwall 11 and/or fatty tissue above the abdominal wall 11 with a surgicalinstrument 57 extending therethrough and into the abdominal cavity 21.As shown, due to the increased overall height, the extension adapter 45also facilitates location of the distal convex region 22, andparticularly the boot-shaped elongated portion of distal convex region22, under the interior surface 23 of the abdominal wall 11 despite theincreased distance between the exterior surface (point of entry into thepatient) and the abdominal cavity 21. It will be appreciated thatalternative embodiments of the extension adapter 45 may also beutilized, such as, for example, extension adapters which directly coupleto the insufflation conduit 30 of FIG. 4 (with a tight seal thereto)rather than to bore 20 for supporting insufflation through aparticularly thick abdominal wall or fatty tissue.

Referring to FIG. 5C, another embodiment of the access port 10′ is shownin which the body 12′ includes an integrally formed elongated proximalportion 13′ extending from the proximal concave region 15′, and a bore20′ extending all the way through the body 12′. It will be appreciatedthat different heights may be utilized for the elongated proximalportion 13′ of the body 12′. It will also be appreciated that, similarto the detachable single channel port extension adapter 45 describedabove with respect to FIGS. 5A, 5B, greater heights of proximal portion13′ (and thus greater elongation of the entire body 12′) will facilitateuse of the access port 10′ in patients with a relatively thick abdominalwall and/or fatty tissue above the abdominal wall, and placement ofdistal convex region 22′ underneath the abdominal wall. The access port10′ can also be formed such that the body 12′ is elongated with theentire length thereof defining a large proximal concave region and adistal convex region in order to provide increased surface area in theconcave region for receiving the abdominal wall and/or fatty tissueabove the abdominal wall to better anchor the access port 10′. Othershapes can be utilized.

Referring to FIG. 6, another embodiment of the access port 100 of thesubject invention is shown which is similar to access port 10, butincludes three diverging ports 120A, 120B, 120C, and a distal anchoringregion 122 which is bifurcated, with flat exterior surfaces 122A, 122Bdefining a channel 160 configured to accommodate a support structure foraccessories used in minimally invasive surgical procedure. The divergingports 120A, 120B, 120C are configured to direct separate surgicalinstruments to exit the access port 100 in a tri-pod formation (e.g., atone hundred and twenty degree angles apart from one another). The ports120A, 120B, 120C may also be conical in shape with larger proximalapertures and smaller distal apertures as shown to allow the surgeon topass a given surgical instrument at slightly different angles throughthe exit apertures. Other angles relative to axis X may be used for theports 120A, 120B, 120C.

Referring to FIG. 6A, another embodiment of the access port 200 of thesubject invention is shown which is similar to access port 100, butincludes three diverging ports/channels 220A, 220B, 220C extendingthrough the body 212 which are curved. As shown, a flexible yetresilient surgical instrument 270 with shape memory extends through oneof the diverging curved ports 220C, passes through the bend of the port220C, and exits port 220C straight. It will be appreciated that in thisconfiguration, the exit angle of the surgical instruments passingthrough the diverging ports will be fixed assuming that the surgicalinstruments are thick enough that the walls defining the bends in theports force the surgical instruments to bend. It is envisioned that anelastic resilient spring material be utilized for the surgicalinstrument 270 such that it has shape memory and is biased toward astraight configuration, yet sufficiently flexible to navigate the bendof the curved ports. It will also be appreciated that in certainembodiments, the ports defined by the access port 200 can converge,intersect, or crisscross within the body of the access port 200 withoutphysically intersecting one another prior to diverging from the accessport 200. Crisscrossing or converging ports can, in certain embodiments,facilitate a reduction in the overall size of the access port 200 bymaking better use of the interior space thereof. The above describedstructure in conjunction with a plurality of channels through a singleaccess port facilitates advancing surgical instruments into theabdominal cavity through a single access location (where the access portenters the incision), and outward in the abdominal cavity relative tothis single access location in a straight controlled manner.

Referring to FIG. 7, another embodiment of the access port 300 of thesubject invention is shown which is similar to access port 10, but withextra elongation of the boot tip shaped distal anchoring region 322.

It will be appreciated that in the various embodiments of the accessports of FIGS. 1-7, the various distal boot tipped shape convexanchoring regions described are integrally formed with the respectiveaccess port bodies. As this convex region may be placed under theabdominal wall, it provides additional surface area for interfacing toand anchoring the access port to the abdominal wall, and additionalsurface area on an opposite side of the distal anchoring region forsupporting surgical accessories, including, for example, an opticalimaging device, a camera device, a video device, a light source, alighting device, a laser device, a measuring device, a laser measuringdevice, a signal transmitting device, a signal receiving device, asignal processing device, a memory storage device, a wring device, aservo driven device, a gear device, an irrigation device and/or asuction device.

For example, the distal anchoring region may define an internal chamberfor housing these devices, and/or may fix them to the external surfacethereof. Other devices and tools are also envisioned. In certainembodiments, the body of the access device may include either connectiveelectrical wiring or fiber optic cables for coupling with or otherwisecommunicating with one or more of the accessories.

Referring to FIG. 8, an alternative embodiment of the access port 400 isprovided in which the body 412 includes a truncated anchoring region 480with a strut 481 configured to detachably couple to a modular anchoringsleeve 483 via an integral flange 485. The modular anchoring sleeve 483may be configured as a support structure for accessories (e.g., situatedinside and/or on the bottom of the sleeve 483) used in minimallyinvasive surgical procedures. One end of the anchoring sleeve 483 isshown partially cut away in FIG. 8 in order to illustrate the integralflange 485 and its connection to the strut 481. Additional oralternative suitable mechanical attachment mechanisms and/or fastenersmay be utilized.

It will be appreciated that anchoring sleeve 483 functions as a modularboot tip device similar to the integrally formed distal anchoring regionof the embodiments of the access port described above, but which isattachable to and detachable from the body 412 of the access device 400.The modular anchoring sleeve 483 may be configured to carry wiring,fiber optic cable, and/or lens washing tubing, and can define aninterior space to accommodate a multiplicity of devices, machines,measuring devices, computer processors/memory, lighting, imaging,camera, video, laser, laser measuring devices for distance and lightingquality, servos, gears and mounting equipment, support wiring, andtransmitters. The modular anchoring sleeve 483 can be alternatively oradditionally be provided with an attachment surface for the camera and/or lighting to perform surgical visualization, and can be provided withspace and an attachment surface for support equipment, and/or a clearlens at its inferior surface and/or all surfaces. The anchoring sleeve483 can include a Bluetooth connection to monitor a viewing device,first person view/vison known as FPV with transmission to a viewingmonitor or GPS device worn on the head or FPV goggles, and a waterprooflens and housing.

The anchoring sleeve 483 can define internal space configured toaccommodate one or more side exiting LED strips (e.g., one or more flator curved LED strips), a single or multiple adjustable LED lights, awire harness, wiring tape, as well as the camera and lighting. Thecamera can be extendible and/or a lighting housing can be attached tothe base of the anchoring sleeve 483. The camera or light can be mountedto rotate relative to the anchoring sleeve 483, or can have a flexiblemount.

The anchoring sleeve 483 can be provided with a passageway to allow aflexible imaging device, a longitudinal instrument slot to position anendoscope, camera or lighting, and an elastomeric sleeve to provide aseal for an instrument slot and a separate seal for an imaging devicecontrol housing.

An attachable lighting source can be mounted to a flexible endoscope orcamera scope to provide optimal lighting conditions for surgicalprocedures requiring more advanced multidirectional lighting tooptimally function with the endoscopic camera. This would allow a largerendoscope or unlighted scope with camera (more advanced optics with zoomand increased number of pixels) only to pass through the sealed channelin the anchoring sleeve 483.

embodiments of the access port discussed herein, such as, for example,inside or underneath the integrally formed convex boot tip shapedanchoring regions of FIGS. 1-7.

Referring to FIG. 9, the access device 10 is schematically illustratedin use with a robotic arm 90 that can operate one or more surgicalinstruments 7 under vision through a camera associated with theanchoring portion of the access device 10 installed in a patient 5. Itis envisioned that the access device 10 can be provided with one or morepassageways for robotic instruments and/or one or more passageways forstandard manual instruments such as a clipper, scissors, suctionirrigator, grasper, stapler, robotic or manual flexible or rigidendoscope or modular boot tip imaging /lighting device. The accessdevice 10 can be used with an overhead robotic C-arm with six or moredegrees of motion controlling one or more instruments. The overheadrobotic arm 90 can control or supply support equipment, imagingdevice/equipment, scope, and a flexible endoscope. The access device 10can be used with robotic control devices platforms attached to anoperating bed such that they can be moved into and out of the operatingfield area and allow full access to the operating table if the needarises to convert to a standard laparoscopic procedure or openprocedure, and the transition wound not be encumbered by machinery.

Referring to FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of the access port 500is provided in which neither the body 512 nor the distal anchoringboot-tip shaped convex region 522 is truncated, but a modular anchoringsleeve 583 is provided which slides over the convex anchoring region522, and couples thereto by an elongated pin 585 slot 587 arrangement.The anchoring sleeve 583 may be configured as a support structure, andprovided with all the surgical accessories discussed above, which mayinterface to or communicate with the abdominal cavity through aperturesor transparent bottom surfaces 589 at the bottom of the anchoring sleeve583.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, an alternative embodiment of the accessdevice 600 and detachable modular boot tip shaped anchoring region 683is shown. The modular boot tip 683 detachably couples to a distal convexregion 622 of the body 612 of the access device 600 by a peg 685 andhole 687 arrangement, and is configured for movement (e.g., articulatingmovement) within a patient's abdominal cavity relative to the body 612.The pegs 685 can be configured to lock in place within holes 687 bysnap, press, or other suitable fastening. The modular boot tip 683includes a spring biased mounting board 689 coupled to a pair ofradially extending arms 691A, 691B which function as an additionalanchoring region and support structure for surgical accessories like theboot tip shaped convex regions and anchoring sleeves described above).One or both of the arms 691A, 691B are movable relative to the body 612or relative to the integrally formed distal convex region 622 of theaccess device 600. The pair of radially extending arms 691A, 691B arespring biased toward a spread open position in FIG. 11 having a gapdefined therebetween, and collapsible to a closed position (FIG. 12) incontact with one another along a radial length thereof.

An I-Beam coupler or other suitable fastener may be utilized to couplethe arms 691A, 691B (binocular boot tips) to the convex region 622 ofthe body 612 of the access device 600 such that the mounting board 689is arcuately aligned with the radially outer surface of the convexregion 622 in the unloaded (open) position of FIG. 11. Other suitableattachment mechanisms can be utilized. The mounting board 689 ispreferably spring biased toward the curved configuration shown in FIG.11 when relaxed, with the arms 691A, 691B in the open position, but canalso be configured as a compound spring with horizontal and verticalspring loading components to support multidirectional deployment of arms691A, 691B. The mounting board 689 can lie flush with the convex region622 when mounted thereto, and can comprise two or more arcuately alignedlayers.

The arms 691A, 691B may be manually pinched shut from the open positionin FIG. 11 to the closed position in FIG. 12 against the spring bias ofthe mounting board 689 and/or their own spring bias, thus forcing themounting board 689 to a substantially flat configuration (e.g., byelastic deformation) as shown in FIG. 12. When the manual pinch of thetwo arms 691A, 691B is released, the spring bias of the mounting board689 and/or the spring bias of the two arms 691A, 691B move the arms691A, 691B back to the open position and the mounting board 689 to thecurved configuration of FIG. 11.

Referring to FIG. 13, as illustrated, each arm 691A, 691B of the modularboot tip shaped anchoring device 683 extends radially outward relativeto the body 612 of the access device 600 (e.g., relative to a centralaxis X of the body 612), and is adapted and configured to carry variousaccessories, such as a light, a camera, wiring, and various othersurgical accessories as discussed above, which may interface to orcommunicate with the abdominal cavity 621 through apertures ortransparent bottom surfaces 693 at the bottom of the modular anchoringdevice 683.

It will be appreciated that once the modular anchoring device 683 iscoupled to the convex region 622, the arms 691A, 691B may be manuallypinched together to the closed position, and held closed at the basethereof while inserted into the small incision 631 in the abdominalcavity 621. As the mounting board 689 will be in a substantially flatconfiguration during insertion of the arms 691A, 691B (FIG. 12) with itslateral edges 689A, 689B offset from the radially outer surface of thedistal convex region 622, it will substantially align with axis 631A ofthe incision 631 in the abdominal wall 611, and thus can be insertedperpendicular thereto behind the radially extending arms 691A, 691B. Inother words, in the closed position, the arms 691A, 691B and themounting board 689 together function as an atraumatic leading edge whichaids in percutaneous insertion of the entire anchoring region 683, 622into the abdominal cavity 621.

Once the arms 691A, 691B and mounting board 689 are advanced distallybeyond the abdominal wall 611 and into the abdominal cavity 621, thebase of the arms 691A, 691B may be released. The spring bias of the arms691A, 691B and/or mounting board 689 will move the arms 691A, 691B tothe spread open (expanded) position with a gap therebetween as shown inFIG. 13. It will be appreciated that such expansion/separation of thearms 691A, 691B within the abdominal cavity 621 allows for an increasedfootprint therein after passing through a small minimally invasiveincision 631. Such increased footprint gives greater anchoringcapability to the anchoring region 622, 683 of the access device 600,helps prevent inadvertent withdrawal of the access device 600, andprovides greater surface area, angles, and options for holding, angling,and utilizing surgical accessories. It will be appreciated that when theaccess device 600 is removed, the modular anchoring device 683, disposeddistal of the body 612, may once again be pinched at the base of thearms 691A, 691B when it reaches the abdominal incision 631. Such contactmay be sensed by the surgeon via haptic perception or observed viainstrumentation. A closing collar may be placed around the circumferenceof the arms 691A, 691B, or two steel eyelets may be placed on proximalupper surfaces of the arms 691A, 691B (e.g., one on either arm) tooppose the arms prior to removal to help ensure approximation of thearms to the surgeon. The arms 691A, 691B may alternatively beapproximated by a tool. The arms 691A, 691B are preferably constructedto be sufficiently mobile and with blunted edges to avoid injury to theabdominal wall with sudden removal absent such accouterments, even whenthe arms 691A, 691B are not aligned with the incision 631 in theabdominal wall 611.

It is anticipated the embodiments described above may be used in otherspaces such as in a prostatectomy, and in spaces which need not beexpanded with insufflation or mechanical retraction. It is alsoanticipated that one of the arms of the articulating boot tip shapedanchor portion described above with respect to FIGS. 11-13 can be usefulas telescopic retractor to provide more exposure by mechanical means. Itwill be appreciated that the methodology described above with respect toFIGS. 11-13 may be similarly utilized for the other embodiments of theaccess device described herein, using the various convex anchoringregions described above (e.g., the convex regions integrally formed tothe body of the access device or the modular anchor attachments whichdetachably couple to the body of the access device) as the atraumaticleading edge to guide insertion of the access device into the incision.

The exemplary modular anchoring device 683 illustrated and describedwith respect to FIGS. 11-13 above may be used in conjunction withvarious embodiments of the inventive disclosure described herein. Theincreased workspace provided by arms 691A, 691B may contain or beequipped with, for example, lighting, a camera, zoom lenses, lasermeasuring devices, servos, receivers and transmitters, first personvision equipment, GPS capability, computer components and mainboards tosupport part or all of the equipment. Mechanical channels may becontained within or traverse to the additional workspace provided forpurposes of lighting, laparoscopic cameras, flexible endoscopes,insufflation, irrigation, suction, smoke evacuation, operatinginstruments or lasers, and other energy sources. The modular anchoringdevice 683 is preferably provided with a water resistant or waterproofinterior environment, with suitable seals applied to joints and entranceand exit sights thereof to preserve the desired operating environment.

It is also anticipated that the access device 600 with modular anchoringdevice 683 may be utilized, for example, in the abdomen, properitonealspace, cranium and Thorax, or in an organ lumen such as the stomach,bladder, bowel, or other spaces. The anchoring device 683 mayadditionally or alternatively include a fixed segment (e.g., one of arms691A, 691B) and at least one mobile segment (e.g., the other of arms691A, 691B) rather than configuring both arms 691A, 691B to be movablerelative to the body 612 or integrally formed anchoring region 622 ofthe access device 600.

Referring to FIG. 14, an alternate embodiment of an access device 700 inaccordance with the subject invention is shown with an alternatemulti-segment modular boot tip shaped anchoring device 783. The modularanchoring device 783 includes a control module 795 which detachablycouples to the access port body 712 via any suitable mechanism (e.g.,such as described with respect to FIG. 11) and a pair of arms 791A,791B, and is in operative communication with an outside device (e.g. therobot arm 90 described with respect to FIG. 9) for control of bilateralmovement of one or both of the arms 791A, 791B. It will be appreciatedthat such mobile arms 791A, 791B may be controllable from outside theabdominal cavity via manual or automated control devices.

It will be appreciated that alternative embodiments of modular anchoringdevices and the attachment mechanisms between the modular anchoringdevices and the bodies of the access devices can be utilized, including,for example, ball and socket joints, mortise and tenon, and male andfemale pin and receiver. Such joints may be configured in sequence or inparallel as may be required to adapt to particular operativeenvironments. In certain embodiments, one of the boot tip shapedanchoring segments/arms/tips may be fixed in position with one or moreadditional segments which are mobile such that the fixed segmentprovides primary support and anchoring to the mobile segments. Themobile segments may attach to the fixed segment, or may be directlyattached to the body of the access device. The body of the access devicemay be provided in other shapes, and is not limited to conical ortruncated conical shapes, if different shapes are more effective to meetrequirements of a particular operation and operative field. The mobilesegments (e.g., mobile arms) can be motorized from within.Alternatively, the fixed segments may function as a primary housing formechanical and controller devices with the mobile segments functioningin, for example, various of the other capacities listed above. Themobile segments may be controlled by direct control, remote control,first person vision, GPS motion, voice or ocular control, measuringdevices, or programmed integrated/coordinated movements.

Alternatively, the primary anchoring segment may be mobile andconfigured to provide an adjustable (simple or compound) angle, thusproviding dynamic positioning adaptable to changing requirements as theoperation progresses. The body of the access device may additionallyprovide workspace housing, equipment mounting, and one or more conduitsfor wiring, fiberoptics, batteries, lighting, cameras or monitoringsensors in addition to any other devices needed to support the abovedescribed components and systems.

It will be appreciated that the embodiments of the inventive disclosuredescribed herein allow for entry into the abdominal cavity through asingle access device in a single incision, modularity both inside theaccess device body (e.g., with detachable seals and inserts which canfluidly couple and fluidly isolate one or more bores of the accessdevice to/from one or more fluid channels defined by the detachableinsert), and outside the access device body (e.g., with detachableanchoring portions and sleeves as described herein). The above describedembodiments allow the surgeon to spread outward within the abdominalcavity from one or more ports of the access device, in a variable yetcontrolled manner while supporting surgical accessories adjacent thebody of the access device.

While the subject invention has been shown and described with referenceto preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will readilyappreciate that various changes and/or modifications may be made theretowithout departing from the spirit and scope of the subject invention asdefined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An access port for use in minimally invasivesurgical procedures performed within a patient's abdominal cavity,comprising: a body defining an outer periphery and a central axis, andhaving opposed proximal and distal end portions, the body further havingan elongated bore extending therethrough from the proximal end portionthereof to the distal end portion thereof for accommodating theintroduction of one or more surgical instruments into a patient'sabdominal cavity, the body including an anchoring region projectingradially outwardly from the distal end portion of the body for securingthe access port with respect to an interior surface of the patient'sabdominal wall, wherein the anchoring region of the body is adapted andconfigured to support one or more accessories used during a surgicalprocedure adjacent to the elongated bore of the body.
 2. An access portas recited in claim 1, wherein the accessories associated with theanchoring region and at least one of the surgical instruments areselected from the group consisting of an optical imaging device, acamera device, a scope, a video device, a light source, a lightingdevice, a laser device, a measuring device, a laser measuring device, asignal transmitting device, a signal receiving device, a signalprocessing device, a memory storage device, a wiring device, a servodriven device, a gear device, an irrigation device, and/or a suctiondevice.
 3. An access port as recited in claim 1, wherein the body housesconnective electrical wiring for coupling with or otherwisecommunicating with one or more of the accessories.
 4. An access port foruse in minimally invasive surgical procedures performed within apatient's abdominal cavity, comprising: a) a body defining an outerperiphery and a central axis, and having opposed proximal and distal endportions, the body further having an elongated bore extendingtherethrough from the proximal end portion thereof to the distal endportion thereof for accommodating the introduction of one or moresurgical instruments into the patient's abdominal cavity, the bodyfurther including: i) a convex anchoring region projecting radiallyoutwardly from the distal end portion of the body for securing theaccess port with respect to an interior surface of the patient'sabdominal wall; and ii) a concave anchoring region projecting radiallyinwardly into the proximal end portion of the body, in a location thatis substantially diametrically opposed from the convex anchoring regionon the distal end portion of the body, for securing the access port withrespect to an exterior surface of the patient's abdominal wall.
 5. Anaccess port as recited in claim 4, wherein at least one roundedprotuberance projects radially outwardly from an outer peripheral wallof the body between the convex anchoring region and the concaveanchoring region to further aide in securing the access port withrespect to the patient's abdominal wall.
 6. An access port as recited inclaim 5, wherein a plurality of rounded protuberances project radiallyoutwardly from an outer peripheral wall of the body between the convexanchoring region and the concave anchoring region.
 7. An access port asrecited in claim 4, further including an embedded insufflation conduitfor delivering insufflation gas into the patient's abdominal cavity, theconduit having a connective fitting associated therewith.
 8. An accessport as recited in claim 4, wherein an arcuate access slot is formed inthe proximal end portion of the body tapering to a circular exit portformed in the distal end portion of the body, adjacent the elongatedbore, for accommodating the introduction of another surgical instrumentinto the patient's abdominal cavity.
 9. An access port as recited inclaim 4, wherein the elongated bore tapers from the proximal end portionof the body towards the distal end portion of the body.
 10. An accessport as recited in claim 4, wherein the convex anchoring region has anatraumatic leading edge surface configured to aide in the percutaneousinsertion of the body through an incision in the patient's abdominalwall.
 11. An access port as recited in claim 4, wherein the concaveanchoring region extends through an arc that runs at least partiallyabout the periphery of the body.
 12. An access port as recited in claim4, further comprising a sealed adapter plug configured for intimateengagement within a distal end portion of the elongated bore.
 13. Anaccess port as recited in claim 12, wherein the sealed adapter plugincludes a passage with a baffle seal seated therein.
 14. An access portas recited in claim 12, wherein the sealed adapter plug includes aplurality of instrument pathways each for accommodating the passage ofan individual surgical instrument through the body of the access portand into the patient's abdominal cavity.
 15. An access port as recitedin claim 14, wherein at least one of the instrument pathways provided inthe adapter plug has a different diameter than the others.
 16. An accessport assembly for use in minimally invasive surgical proceduresperformed within a patient's body cavity, comprising: a) an access portbody defining an outer periphery and a central axis, and having opposedproximal and distal end portions, the body further having an elongatedbore extending therethrough from the proximal end portion thereof to thedistal end portion thereof; and b) at least one sealed adapter plugconfigured for intimate engagement within a distal end portion of theelongated bore, the plug having at least one sealed pathway foraccommodating the introduction of one or more surgical instruments intothe patient's body cavity.
 17. An access port assembly as recited inclaim 16, wherein a baffle seal is seated within the pathway of the atleast one adapter plug.
 18. An access port assembly as recited in claim16, wherein a plurality of instrument pathways are formed through the atleast one adapter plug, each for accommodating the passage of anindividual surgical instrument through into the patient's abdominalcavity.